1 year ago
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Aloe Vera – The Miracle Plant

Aloe Vera is a plant that needs no introduction. Most of us have used it in some form, as a cosmetic, food or medicine. Called The Plant of Immortality and The Wand of Heaven, it has long been known as one of the most medicinal plants. It’s a handy little succulent to have in your home, for its healing properties. The uses of aloe vera gel – the sticky juice found in the inner lining of the plant’s thick leaves – are many. Its anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and cosmetic values have made it one of the most common household plants in the region.


Heals Scrapes and Burns

 If you own an aloe vera plant, you’ve probably used its gel for sunburns and scrapes. The enzymes in the gel are great for soothing and calming irritated skin. It can be used for anything from minor cuts and scrapes to insect bites, sunburn, rashes, and sores. Its antifungal, antibacterial and antiseptic properties make it an effective go-to home remedy for those little emergencies.


Skin Care

Aloe gel is one of the best natural moisturizers for your face and body. The complex carbohydrates present in the leaves are your skin’s best friend in dry climates. It also helps in reducing acne, sunburn, etc. and makes your skin glow. It can be used fresh as is or mixed with other ingredients to form a face pack.


Hair Care

Just like your skin, your hair can also benefit from aloe vera’s moisturizing properties. Aloe gel makes an effective hair mask for dry, damaged hair and will restore its shine and health.

Topical application of aloe vera gel is quite common, but did you know you can also drink aloe vera juice for more benefits? Aloe Vera works wonders within your body when ingested. The aloe vera gel is packed with healthy vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and amino acids. Here are some of the benefits of adding aloe juice to your diet:


Reduces Heartburn

The anti-inflammatory property of aloe vera makes it a safe and effective treatment for GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease). In some cases, this natural remedy will even work better than traditional medicines. 


Lowers Blood Sugar

Patients with Type 2 Diabetes can benefit from taking 1-2 tablespoons of aloe juice per day. Several studies have shown that regular intake of aloe vera gel not only significantly reduced blood glucose levels and HbA1c levels but also increased the secretion of insulin. 


Natural Mouthwash

Stop the chemical overload and try aloe juice as a mouthwash! Fresh aloe vera gel contains a heavy dose of vitamin C, which prevents plaque and relieves swollen gums. It is also effective in treating mouth ulcers. 


Detoxify the Body

Aloe vera juice contains a healthy mix of vitamins and minerals that help cleanse and detox the body. It aids in digestion and helps remove toxins from your system. 


Increases Immunity and Energy

The polysaccharides in aloe vera stimulate the white blood cells, improving your immune system. Regular intake of aloe juice will leave you feeling healthy, happy and full of energy.


Natural Laxative

If you suffer from constipation, consider taking aloe vera gel as an alternative to over the counter medications. When used sparingly, aloe helps in improving digestion and constipation.

While consuming aloe vera has many benefits, it does react with certain medicines. If you’re on any medication, check with your doctor before taking aloe vera juice orally.


Taking Care of the Plant

If you don’t already own an aloe vera plant, this is the best time to get one! It’s one of the easiest plants to care for, and can be grown indoors or outdoors. The sunny UAE climate is ideal for this plant; it thrives in a dry atmosphere. If kept indoors, make sure it gets plenty of direct light, whether sunlight or artificial light. Aloe vera only needs to be watered once every 2-3 weeks. Check the soil with your finger – if it’s dry up to 2 inches, it’s time to water. Overwatering can kill your plant more easily than under-watering. 


Harvesting Your Own Aloe Gel

Don’t want to buy aloe vera gel? If you’d rather harvest your own from your plant, just follow these steps:

- Pick a large, mature leaf from your plant and cut it off using a clean, sharp knife. If you’re using it for immediate topical relief, just place the cut side of the leaf directly onto your skin.

- Hold the cut end down, and allow the yellow sap to run out. This sap, called aloin, is very bitter and can upset your stomach if ingested.

- Wash the leaf, and cut off the serrated edges. Skin it much as you’d skin a fish, removing all the green and yellow bits until you get a white translucent fillet of flesh. 

- Your aloe is now ready to be pureed or juiced into your favorite smoothie. You can also cut it into cubes and freeze it for up to a month.

 






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Seena Raghavan

Editor